He said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with UCLan. I know that I leave the University in good health and with a strong management and academic team in place.”

Chairman of the university board David Taylor said: “I speak for the Board, and indeed the entire University, when I say that we are very sorry to be losing Professor Kelleher.

“Gerry has had a major positive impact on the University since his arrival and our most recent student recruitment numbers demonstrate the excellent job he has done. I am sure I speak for everybody when I say that we wish Gerry all the best for the future.”

Professor Kelleher has decided to stand down

A recruitment process is underway to find a new vice-chancellor but until then Professor Thomas has been approved by the board to take on the role on a temporary basis.

Prof Kelleher was announced in March 2013 as replacing Dr Malcolm McVicar.

Kelleher was previously the deputy vice-chancellor at Manchester Metropolitan University.